[CQ-Contest] 2021 CQWW Rules Updates

[John Dorr]

Good morning everyone,

I'm writing to inform you about some exciting updates to the CQ WW contest
effective this October/November. In summary, here is what's new:

1) We have created a new YOUTH overlay that will be available to all
competitors who are 25 years old or under, effective on the dates of the
contest. The Cabrillo overlay format will be CATEGORY-OVERLAY: YOUTH. In
support of this change, Youth overlay entries will be highlighted in the
results (as is currently done for Classic and Rookies). In addition,
plaques will be available for the winners.

2) A new EXPLORER category has been established to allow amateurs to
participate in the CQ WW Contest while experimenting creatively with
Internet-linked stations and other new technologies. The goal of this
category is to encourage innovation in operating strategies, station
design, and technology adaptation. Please review the detailed rules at <
https://cqww.com/explorer.htm> for more information.

3) As a reminder (Note: this is not a new requirement), audio recordings
may be requested for your entry as part of the log checking process. Any
single operator entrant competing for a top five finish at the (a) World,
(b) Continent, or (c) USA levels, including Classic Overlay, must record
the transmitted and received audio as heard by the operator for the
duration of the contest operation. Failure to respond to this request may
result in your log being reclassified or disqualified.

The combination of embracing new technology as well as recognizing the
youth community amongst us is going to make the CQ WW an even more popular
event. My thanks go out to the CQ WW Contest Committee and others who
helped make this happen!

73, John, K1AR
CQ WW Contest Director